Overview

Discover the magic of the Friendly Islands, where the ocean is not just water, but the realm of gods. Before the first canoe ever cut through the waves, the history of Tonga was written on the wind. It was a time when Tangaloa ruled the sky, when the trickster Maui fished up islands from the deep, and when a tragic romance between a maiden and an eel gave the world its first coconut. In Gods of the Reef, the ancient oral traditions of Tonga are brought to life for a modern audience. Based on the 1924 anthropological collection by Edward Winslow Gifford, these stories have been lovingly retold, transforming dry academic records into vibrant, dramatic tales of love, war, and magic. Inside this collection, you will: Sail with Maui as he snares the sun and wrestles the Earthquake God for the secret of fire. Descend into Pulotu, the mysterious Tongan underworld, where mortals must outwit the spirits to survive. Witness the rise of Muni, the giant castaway who uprooted trees and challenged tyrants. Learn the truth behind the Maka-Feke octopus lure and why the crab rides on the plover's leg. An Annotated Edition This book goes beyond simple storytelling. It is designed to be a bridge to Tongan culture. Each chapter includes: Cultural Insights: Learn the real-world context behind the myths, from the etiquette of the Royal Kava Ceremony to the sacred status of turtles. Discussion Questions: Perfect for students, teachers, and book clubs to explore the deeper meanings of the legends. Glossary: A guide to essential Tongan terms like Mana, Tapu, and Matapule. Whether you are a student of mythology, a lover of the ocean, or seeking to reconnect with your Pacific roots, Gods of the Reef invites you to sit by the fire and listen. The kava is served. The story is about to begin.

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